This winter, Minnesota has witnessed an incredible irruption of northern owls, drawing birders and photographers from all over the country. The Sax-Zim Bog and the North Shore of Lake Superior have become prime destinations for capturing stunning images of these elusive raptors. Whether you’re an experienced wildlife photographer or an enthusiast looking to witness these majestic creatures, last week, I have the opportunity make this wonderful owl photography adventure.
Why This Winter is Special
Irruptions of northern owls, particularly Great Gray Owls, Snowy Owls, Boreal Owls, and Northern Hawk Owls, occur when food sources in their typical Arctic and boreal forest habitats dwindle, pushing them farther south in search of sustenance. This year, an exceptional movement of these birds has been reported, providing a rare opportunity to observe and photograph them in remarkable numbers.
Best Locations for Owl Photography
Sax-Zim Bog
Located about an hour northwest of Duluth, Sax-Zim Bog is world-renowned for its diverse winter birdlife. The open fields, bogs, and spruce forests provide ideal hunting grounds for owls. Key locations to check include:
- McDavitt Road: A hotspot for Great Gray Owls, often seen perched on low branches or fence posts at dawn and dusk.
- Admiral Road: Excellent for spotting Boreal Owls, a rare and highly sought-after subject. And around feeder place.
- Blue Spruce Road: Frequented by Northern Hawk Owls, which are more active during daylight hours.
Minnesota’s North Shore
The stretch from Duluth to Grand Marais along Highway 61 offers excellent opportunities to photograph Snowy Owls and other northern species.
- Duluth Harbor: Snowy Owls are often found resting on breakwaters, piers, and industrial structures.
- Two Harbors & Silver Bay: Keep an eye on open fields and rocky outcrops for hunting owls. And around lighthouse, train station area.
- Grand Marais & Gunflint Trail: Great Gray Owls occasionally venture into the boreal forests of this region.
My Trip to Sax-Zim Bog and the North Shore
On February 16, 2025, my wife and I flew to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), then rented a car and drove three hours to Duluth, MN. We stayed at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Duluth Waterfront for four nights. After lunch, we drove about an hour to Sax-Zim Bog and visited the Sax-Zim Bog Visitor Center. We left the visitor center after 3 PM and drove around the bog searching for owls, but after an hour, we had no luck. Then, someone reported on the Telegram Sax-Zim Bog Sightings group that a Great Gray Owl was spotted at the Admiral Road feeder area. When we arrived, there were about a dozen cars lined up along the roadside. For the first time in my life, I spotted a Great Gray Owl perched on a small tree branch! It was an amazing experience.
The second day, the temperature dropped significantly, feeling like -45°F. We decided to stay at the hotel in the morning. After lunch, we headed back to the bog, and this time, we saw two different Great Gray Owls and even a Boreal Owl.
On the third day, we drove to Two Harbors, a 30-minute drive north of Duluth, after hearing reports of 2-3 Great Gray Owls hunting near the lighthouse and train station area. When we arrived, I saw a Great Gray Owl standing on top of a tree by the roadside and another perched on a small tree branch in the middle of a snowy field. A dozen photographers surrounded them, capturing photos. After a while, the owl in the middle took flight and landed briefly on a photographer’s long lens! Shortly after, it perched atop another photographer’s tripod before continuing its hunt for voles. Watching this behavior up close was an incredible experience.
GGO and photographers
On the last day, light snow was falling, creating a beautiful winter landscape. In the afternoon, we decided to return to Two Harbors in hopes of another sighting. We were in luck—two Great Gray Owls were actively hunting in a snowy grass field. I witnessed one of them successfully catch a vole after four or five attempts. It was such a rewarding experience to witness their hunting prowess.
Background in lighthouse station and lighthouse
GGO hovering in the air and hunting success with a vole
The next day, it was a sunny day. Before we left Duluth, we drove to two harbors one more time to see GGO, then back to Minneapolis. It was truly a successful owl photography adventure, filled with once-in-a-lifetime encounters with these magnificent birds.
Tips for Capturing Stunning Owl Photos
- Use the Right Equipment – A telephoto lens (400mm or longer) is essential to maintain a respectful distance while capturing detailed images.
- Timing is Everything – Owls are most active at dawn and dusk, so plan your outings accordingly.
- Patience is Key – Spend time observing their behavior and waiting for the perfect moment to capture a flight shot or hunting sequence.
- Respect Wildlife and Ethics – Never bait owls, avoid disturbing them, and adhere to ethical wildlife photography guidelines.
- Dress for the Cold – Minnesota winters can be brutal; layers, hand warmers, and insulated boots are essential.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
The current owl irruption in Minnesota offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness and document these magnificent birds in an awe-inspiring winter landscape. Whether you’re aiming for that perfect flight shot or a serene portrait in a snowy setting, Sax-Zim Bog and the North Shore provide the perfect backdrop for a magical wildlife photography experience.